UK deeply concerned by escalation of fighting in South Sudan
Minister for Africa deeply concerned by increase in fighting in South Sudan and calls on leaders to end all hostilities.
Mr Duddridge said:
I am deeply concerned by the intensification of fighting in South Sudan. The ongoing military offensive in Unity State and reports of fighting in Upper Nile State are breaches of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement that both parties have committed to and contravene UN Security Council resolution 2206. Those responsible must be held to account.
I am also extremely concerned by credible reports indicating that civilians have been targeted, including women and girls with sexual violence, homes have been burnt, and livestock looted on a large scale. Thousands more have been forced from their homes joining the 2 million already displaced by this protracted 16 month conflict. Both sides must ensure that humanitarian actors, UN personnel and cessation of hostilities monitors are allowed full access. I call on South Sudan’s leaders to immediately end all hostilities and redouble their efforts to secure peace for the people of South Sudan.
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